Foods from Ahora
Comments
2017 Nov 17
Ahora has by far the most superb Mexican food in the Ottawa area! I always come here for burritos and end up staying late drinking margaritas haha.
They're even listed on EthicalTree.com because they have such excellent vegan options :D
They're even listed on EthicalTree.com because they have such excellent vegan options :D
2014 May 1
Wife and I were craving some Mexican on a Sunday afternoon and were walking around the Byward Market area and stumbled upon Ahora on Dalhousie. We were starving so we decided to pop in. I was impressed by all the accolades from the city and various other organizations. I had the Plato Ahora and my wife had the Pollo Burrito. Was extremely surprised with the size of the servings. Couldn't ask for any better. Great food. Delicious sauces and great selection. Has better flavour and presentation than I ever had living in the Carribean and Mexico. Trust me when I tell you that you will walk out full and your wallet won't suffer either.
2014 Mar 28
We ate at Ahora last weekend - I'd been in the midst of a major Mexican food craving, and LoneStar wasn't cutting it. Debated between here and a couple other market spots, chose Ahora. I'm SO glad we did! Food was fresh, tasty, portions were a reasonable size, steak was TENDER, and REAL tortillas! The green "hot" salsa wasn't too hot, just a nice kick, and great mixed into the rice. Guacamole was amazing - next time, I want chips and guacamole just for me! With it being in a basement, and the tables small/close, I'm not sure I'd want to take my 4yr old or parents there, but the two of us will be back for sure.
2013 Sep 27
The Enchiladas Mixta with rice and beans. I ordered the mixed platter with one beef, one chicken and one vegetarian enchiladas. I enjoyed it a lot and the prices are reasonable. I am not Mexican so I am not going to say if this is authentic of not. All I know is that it is well made and it tasted very good. My favourite was the beef one. I also added some salsa verde.
I do like the salsa bar. Why be stingy on condiments?
My friends and I shared chips and guacamole. It was Very good.
I also liked the drinks selection. Horchata and Jarritos both available as well as some beer cocktails!
I will be back!
I do like the salsa bar. Why be stingy on condiments?
My friends and I shared chips and guacamole. It was Very good.
I also liked the drinks selection. Horchata and Jarritos both available as well as some beer cocktails!
I will be back!
2013 Jun 16
Went here with a friend visiting from Calgary who is vegetarian. So glad I knew about this place. I had tried to visit once before but it was full. The hostess wanted so desperately for us to stay and was very sweet. Even if a table was open it was a little too noisy adn casual for the first date that I was on at the time.
Servings were huge and we were indecisive but settled on the Cactus Salad and Nachos. I crave the cactus salad. So delicious.
We also had Jarritos and a Horchata to drink. Both were delicious but sweet. A glass of water was sweet. The drink reminded me of the one I had in Barcelona
Servings were huge and we were indecisive but settled on the Cactus Salad and Nachos. I crave the cactus salad. So delicious.
We also had Jarritos and a Horchata to drink. Both were delicious but sweet. A glass of water was sweet. The drink reminded me of the one I had in Barcelona
2012 Apr 27
We went to Ahora last week for a quick dinner. It's a busy, smallish, brightly colourful basement restaurant with closely packed tables and lots of coming and going of patrons, most of whom are familiar with the ordering-at-the-counter procedure.
We ordered the Ensalada de Nopales, Quesadilla de Pollo, Burrito Vegetariano and lime Jarritos. The salad was a tasty, simple lettuce salad with a bit of onion and avocado, a couple tomato wedges, cactus pear slices, and a simple vinaigrette; it was good, enjoyably fresh. My wife didn't think much of the cactus pear texture, and left it for me to enjoy. Her quesadilla was OK, not a whole lot of flavour, but nothing wrong with it except perhaps that it looked a little light on the filling. My burrito was chock full of black beans and had a small slice or two of avocado (not guacamole); it had good flavour, but not a lot of flavour. I poured some of the green verde salsa (labelled hot) on it and was quite disappointed that it had virtually no flavour or heat - I couldn't tell whether the verde salsa was green with peppers, tomatillos or cilantro it was so devoid of flavour - big disappointment. I also tried the salsa asada and it was much better, flavoured by roasting and maybe a bit of seasoning but with little heat (mind you it was labelled mild). The lime Jarritos were good but not nearly as tasty as Seaman's Lime Rickey (from PEI).
It looks like I have faint praise for Ahora, but I like the spot and will return, as it's quick, cheap, has beer and a few alcoholic drinks, does some things reasonably well but could have so much more flavour with just a little effort (in which case it would be even harder to get in the doors some days - be careful what I wish for!).
We ordered the Ensalada de Nopales, Quesadilla de Pollo, Burrito Vegetariano and lime Jarritos. The salad was a tasty, simple lettuce salad with a bit of onion and avocado, a couple tomato wedges, cactus pear slices, and a simple vinaigrette; it was good, enjoyably fresh. My wife didn't think much of the cactus pear texture, and left it for me to enjoy. Her quesadilla was OK, not a whole lot of flavour, but nothing wrong with it except perhaps that it looked a little light on the filling. My burrito was chock full of black beans and had a small slice or two of avocado (not guacamole); it had good flavour, but not a lot of flavour. I poured some of the green verde salsa (labelled hot) on it and was quite disappointed that it had virtually no flavour or heat - I couldn't tell whether the verde salsa was green with peppers, tomatillos or cilantro it was so devoid of flavour - big disappointment. I also tried the salsa asada and it was much better, flavoured by roasting and maybe a bit of seasoning but with little heat (mind you it was labelled mild). The lime Jarritos were good but not nearly as tasty as Seaman's Lime Rickey (from PEI).
It looks like I have faint praise for Ahora, but I like the spot and will return, as it's quick, cheap, has beer and a few alcoholic drinks, does some things reasonably well but could have so much more flavour with just a little effort (in which case it would be even harder to get in the doors some days - be careful what I wish for!).
2011 Dec 5
I agree with some reviewers below that the selection at Ahora isn't necessarily "authentic". However, as a student on a budget this is a great inexpensive option for cheap, fresh, and flavourful food.
Unlike some reviewers, I personally like ordering at the counter and then receiving my food at the table. By ordering at the counter, it allows me to get my order in when I want to - no waiting for a server! Also, as a returning visitor, I'm acquainted enough with the menu that I don't necessarily need the time and sit and peruse the menu before ordering (though you do have the option of doing that before you head to the counter). Most importantly, as a student, having a counter-based system reduces on the amount of tipping required (though I still tip because the server DOES bring the food to the table). I also enjoy the bring primary-coloured decor; I find it enlivens the basement cafeteria which doesn't receive very much sunlight.
For starters, I've gotten the Anafres a few times. The dip is decent and the mini clay oven is an nice touch, though I personally wish it was more flavourful and cheesier. I tend to add loads of chili from the chili bar. (My favourite is the green cilantro-based chili.) I've seen a few guests sharing nachos and they seem very generously portioned so I'll be sure to try those soon.
I've gotten quesadillas, tacos, and burritos here and I'd have to say my favourite are the burritos. My personal favourite is the burrito grande which has a little bit of everything and is big and flavourful (especially once loaded up with green salsa). It comes fully loaded with chicken or steak, cheese, black beans, rice, salsa gringa, lettuce, guacamole, and sour cream. I usually get the salad as a side because I enjoy their light vinegar dressing, and it's a good balance for the heavy burrito. I've also been with guests who really enjoyed the enchiladas.
The fresh squeezed juice and imported Latin American bebidas are good, though slightly overpriced in my view.
Service is always prompt and friendly, though sometimes you may have to wait for a table if you come in during rush hour.
Overall, good value and fresh tasting flavourful food that's well worth the price.
Unlike some reviewers, I personally like ordering at the counter and then receiving my food at the table. By ordering at the counter, it allows me to get my order in when I want to - no waiting for a server! Also, as a returning visitor, I'm acquainted enough with the menu that I don't necessarily need the time and sit and peruse the menu before ordering (though you do have the option of doing that before you head to the counter). Most importantly, as a student, having a counter-based system reduces on the amount of tipping required (though I still tip because the server DOES bring the food to the table). I also enjoy the bring primary-coloured decor; I find it enlivens the basement cafeteria which doesn't receive very much sunlight.
For starters, I've gotten the Anafres a few times. The dip is decent and the mini clay oven is an nice touch, though I personally wish it was more flavourful and cheesier. I tend to add loads of chili from the chili bar. (My favourite is the green cilantro-based chili.) I've seen a few guests sharing nachos and they seem very generously portioned so I'll be sure to try those soon.
I've gotten quesadillas, tacos, and burritos here and I'd have to say my favourite are the burritos. My personal favourite is the burrito grande which has a little bit of everything and is big and flavourful (especially once loaded up with green salsa). It comes fully loaded with chicken or steak, cheese, black beans, rice, salsa gringa, lettuce, guacamole, and sour cream. I usually get the salad as a side because I enjoy their light vinegar dressing, and it's a good balance for the heavy burrito. I've also been with guests who really enjoyed the enchiladas.
The fresh squeezed juice and imported Latin American bebidas are good, though slightly overpriced in my view.
Service is always prompt and friendly, though sometimes you may have to wait for a table if you come in during rush hour.
Overall, good value and fresh tasting flavourful food that's well worth the price.
2011 Nov 19
I had a very enjoyable experience at this cute authentic Mexican place. Cafeteria style made it quick to order, but I think with such an intimate atmosphere it would have been nice as a full service restaurant as well. Bathroom was very tiny! I felt like a giant despite the fact im 5’3. I ordered a Burrito de Pollo and it was delicious! My friend ordered two soft Tacos, one with chicken one with steak, both very good. All the food tasted very healthy as well. Sangria was not too shabby either! I will definitely make a return trip to this place as soon as I’m in the area.
Older
2007 May 29
The take-away version came with no salad!
I hadn't realised how much I liked their little salad offering. It's not just limp afterthought iceberg, but actual salad.
There were a few bits of avocado, peppers and tomato in the box, but...
Oh, never mind. I'm looking at their on-line menu now, and noting "Served with two of the following: beans, salad, rice." It came with plenty of rice and beans. I see it's the fault of my food-fetching friend.
Moral of the story: GET THE SALAD. I had not realised until FF's commentary below how critical it is to rounding out this particular plate.
And now I have to give them props for the 'few bits of avocado...'
I hadn't realised how much I liked their little salad offering. It's not just limp afterthought iceberg, but actual salad.
There were a few bits of avocado, peppers and tomato in the box, but...
Oh, never mind. I'm looking at their on-line menu now, and noting "Served with two of the following: beans, salad, rice." It came with plenty of rice and beans. I see it's the fault of my food-fetching friend.
Moral of the story: GET THE SALAD. I had not realised until FF's commentary below how critical it is to rounding out this particular plate.
And now I have to give them props for the 'few bits of avocado...'
2007 Mar 11
At kmennie's suggestion, I had the vegetarian enchiladas and was not disappointed. It was satisfying and delicious. The black beans were very heavy but the refreshing salad sort of "lubricated" the whole meal and allowed me to eat the entire mess of heavy food without regret.
Anyone who thinks that a meal without meat is unsatisfying should try this dish (with the bean option). ;-)
Anyone who thinks that a meal without meat is unsatisfying should try this dish (with the bean option). ;-)
2009 Jul 9
I just attended Ahora for the first time with the GF and it matched my expectations. We both got Burritos in different forms, as well as the corn chips and Guacamole. We only sampled the rice and the beans and a few of the sauces seeing as the Lady happens to be quite allergic to sweet peppers (red, green, yellow) which are only actually found in the salad or as a garnish.
It was astounding. It felt filling and healthy, like the very definition of quality mexican food. My only complaint was that there was so little space for a resto which is so wonderful. I will certainly be back to try the Enchilada, but I heartily reccomend the burrito's.
It was astounding. It felt filling and healthy, like the very definition of quality mexican food. My only complaint was that there was so little space for a resto which is so wonderful. I will certainly be back to try the Enchilada, but I heartily reccomend the burrito's.
2007 May 29
After so much 'enchiladas vegetariana' abuse I finally branched out and got a take-away vegetarian burrito. The 'ranchero vegitariano.'
And, yum.
One thing stands out: Ahora is a great value. It's an awful lot of high-quality food for relatively little cash. Size-wise, it reminded me of something called a "Macho Burrito" from the US "Del Taco" chain, which was -- when I was there -- advertised with the not terribly appealing slogan "Over 1 pound of ingredients!" Really, a piggish size. But exactly the sort of thing I like to pig out on.
The hot-tish green salsa, all cilantro-y, is just the thing to douse it with.
And, yum.
One thing stands out: Ahora is a great value. It's an awful lot of high-quality food for relatively little cash. Size-wise, it reminded me of something called a "Macho Burrito" from the US "Del Taco" chain, which was -- when I was there -- advertised with the not terribly appealing slogan "Over 1 pound of ingredients!" Really, a piggish size. But exactly the sort of thing I like to pig out on.
The hot-tish green salsa, all cilantro-y, is just the thing to douse it with.
2007 Mar 11
Finally, an Ottawa restaurant that understands that salsa has no place in nachos! You won't find the pathetically soggy salsa-laden chips in this dish like you do in most places here.
Sadly, the chips aren't the greatest (thick and greasy) and I like to have black olives and jalapeños cooked with my nachos. Cheese is generous and the nachos are perfectly baked.
This was the Large ($6 or so)
Sadly, the chips aren't the greatest (thick and greasy) and I like to have black olives and jalapeños cooked with my nachos. Cheese is generous and the nachos are perfectly baked.
This was the Large ($6 or so)
2007 Mar 11
Always keen to try something new, I opted for this beverage with my meal. It was quite good, consisting of milk, sugar, cinnamon, and a kind of milled rice whisked in a blender.
I had to chuckle when I watched the server tear open two paper packets of sugar and dump them into the blender. It's almost like camping! ;-)
I had to chuckle when I watched the server tear open two paper packets of sugar and dump them into the blender. It's almost like camping! ;-)
2007 May 22
I went to Ahora last night for the second time. I had the tres tacos (I was hungry!) - all vegetarian.
They were filled with black beans and veggies to which I added salsa from the condiment bar. With chips as one of my side orders, I got to try all of the salsas that were being offered. Yum! I also had the salad. I'm not sure what is in their vinegrette, but I thought it was great.
The woman who took my order was very helpful about which dishes contained dairy products.
We even got a bit of a dance show as they were closing up. :)
They were filled with black beans and veggies to which I added salsa from the condiment bar. With chips as one of my side orders, I got to try all of the salsas that were being offered. Yum! I also had the salad. I'm not sure what is in their vinegrette, but I thought it was great.
The woman who took my order was very helpful about which dishes contained dairy products.
We even got a bit of a dance show as they were closing up. :)
2012 Oct 29
I completly agree with all the comments, the churros at Ahora are chewy...and in my experience, they shouldn't be like that! (and I am Latin).
If you are looking for crisply, freshly made churros (and you can order online) try www.mrchurritos.com , you won't regret.
If you are looking for crisply, freshly made churros (and you can order online) try www.mrchurritos.com , you won't regret.
2012 Jan 30
Churros should ALWAYS be crispy. Bringing them in from a bakery in Mtl is unacceptable to any self-respecting Latin churro-eater!
I thought that they were the only vendor in Ottawa to sell them - even then I refused to order them after my first try. However, you can find freshly made, properly crispy churros at Delice Royal Bakery in Orleans :D.
I thought that they were the only vendor in Ottawa to sell them - even then I refused to order them after my first try. However, you can find freshly made, properly crispy churros at Delice Royal Bakery in Orleans :D.
2011 Jan 25
I have had the churros from Ahora's on three seperate occasions and find them in general kind of hit-or-miss.
Given the fact that you really can't find churros very many other places in Ottawa (I've never seen them /anywhere/), it is difficult not to give them a good review. I guess I prefer my churros crispier on the outside, and generally find that Ahoras come off as a little soggy - delicious, but soggy.
Drenching them in chocolate sauce and dulce de leche doesn't really help the texture, but I have to admit that the flavour is heavenly.
Given the fact that you really can't find churros very many other places in Ottawa (I've never seen them /anywhere/), it is difficult not to give them a good review. I guess I prefer my churros crispier on the outside, and generally find that Ahoras come off as a little soggy - delicious, but soggy.
Drenching them in chocolate sauce and dulce de leche doesn't really help the texture, but I have to admit that the flavour is heavenly.
2011 Jan 18
Every time I visit Ahora, I always order a Pina Colada - they are that good.
The cream of coconut ratio to everything else is so perfect and is so fresh that I always imagine that I am drinking it right out of a halved coconut. Very fresh, creamy coconutty-milk flavour with the brightness of fresh pineapple to balance it off.
The ice is ground but not to a complete watery slush, and there are still some pretty big chunks in there, which I like. The rum content is good, but not overpowering in any way. I often forget that it is actually an alcoholic drink until the room starts spinning. ;)
They have the perfect amount of rum, in my opinion, and it is the ideal drink to go alongside a delicious plate of fresh tacos and salad or a giant enchilada!
And yes, it is always garnished with a maraschino cherry. :)
The cream of coconut ratio to everything else is so perfect and is so fresh that I always imagine that I am drinking it right out of a halved coconut. Very fresh, creamy coconutty-milk flavour with the brightness of fresh pineapple to balance it off.
The ice is ground but not to a complete watery slush, and there are still some pretty big chunks in there, which I like. The rum content is good, but not overpowering in any way. I often forget that it is actually an alcoholic drink until the room starts spinning. ;)
They have the perfect amount of rum, in my opinion, and it is the ideal drink to go alongside a delicious plate of fresh tacos and salad or a giant enchilada!
And yes, it is always garnished with a maraschino cherry. :)
warby
For this meal I was able to choose two of: rice, beans, salad. I went for the beans and salad. These beans are perfect! Well seasoned and addictive. The salad is good enough but less spectacular. Really all I want is a pile of beans and the salsa bar. Their salty pico de gallo and salsa verde are two of my favourite foods anywhere.